Arrow Lake rivers and roads

Mahler accepted Rue's touch, and so her the side of her muzzle rested across his shoulderblade for a brief moment. Even now, with her stomach twisted up in knots, the contact triggered a heart-flutter. "I won't be far," she murmured into his fur, though it would remain a mystery as to whether the words were simply a reassurance or a shared hope for something more.

Mahler was a absolute picture of composure, and understanding emanated from every line he spoke. It was a reaction that was almost more heartbreaking than if he had been angry, or upset. Rue ears twitched forward in curiosity as he spoke of his encounter with Liri, his words and tone indicating that he was aware of the alphess's intention to settle in the Vale. 

Rue opened her mouth to thank Mahler, but she was interrupted by Stigmata's rather abrupt arrival. The General's harried appearance suggested that this was not the time to be imparting bad news, but he had asked, and Ruenna was nothing if not honest. 

Saying it once was hard enough, but stars above-- saying it again almost killed the poor girl.

"It's my former alpha, Liri. She's as close as a sister to me, and I thought she was--" Rue cleared her throat. "--lost, until very recently. She hopes to raise a pack, revive what we have lost.. and she needs my help." She shook her head. "I have to go. It's.. it's family." 

Ironic that the one Diaspora woman for which Stigmata was-- perhaps-- least worried was the one he would end up losing.